Anderson to Succeed Marineau at Levi’s

The board of directors of Levi Strauss & Co. Monday designated John Anderson to succeed Phil Marineau as president and chief executive officer of the firm upon the latter’s retirement on Nov. 26.

Anderson, a 27-year veteran of Levi’s, was promoted to chief operating officer of the firm on July 6, at which time Marineau disclosed his intention to step down. The outgoing CEO recommended that Anderson be his successor.

“John is an excellent choice to lead LS & Co. to sustained, profitable growth,” Marineau said in a statement. “John has consistently delivered exceptional results in various leadership roles worldwide and has a tremendous following in the company. Based on his long and extensive service with LS & Co., John is keenly aware of what it will take to continue to build our brands and businesses globally.”

Anderson, 55, has led the firm’s Asia Pacific division since 1999 and has been responsible for its global supply chain management since March 2004. He joined the firm in 1979 as a product manager in Australia and his posts since then have included vice president of merchandising and product development for the U.S. Levi’s brand, general manager of Levi Strauss Canada, and president of Levi Strauss Canada and Latin America.

“I am absolutely thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to lead such a distinguished company,” said Anderson. “Phil and I will work very closely during the next several months to ensure a smooth transition and build on our business momentum. I look forward to capitalizing on LS & Co.’s global market presence and optimizing growth opportunities for the company and our shareholders.”

The company also enacted a planned reduction in the size of its board to nine members from 14. Stepping down were Angela Glover Blackwell, a director since 1994; Robert Friedman, director since 1998; James Gaither, director since 1988; Miriam Haas, director since 2004; and Walter J. Haas, director since 1995. Anderson is expected to take Marineau’s seat on the board following his move into the CEO role.